Those who enjoy gift hampers might be receiving more in the next few years, as cheese consumption is expected to rise.

Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, has predicted intake of the food to increase by 20 per cent on 2008 levels by 2015, according to FlexNews.

This means that around 21 million metric tonnes of the dairy produce will be eaten.

Peter Duggan, from the firm's strategic information services, said that the growth is based on improving income levels and increased consumer confidence.

Perhaps the main reason, however, is the adoption of western-style foods across the globe, the expert explained.

"The Asian, Latin American, African and Middle East markets will show the greatest growth over the coming years," he added.

Philly.com recently named Red Cat its cheese of the month - a variety that is produced at Birchrun Hills Farm in Chester County and is described as having a "pungent swagger".